Notes

Fr. Augustine Kandathikudilil, "The Syriac language, a connecting link."

Note: Fr. Augustine Kandathikudilil had the privilege of learning the Syriac language as well as Syriac melodies of the solemn Qurbana from a great priest, teacher, and talented singer, Fr. George Plathottam. Fr. Augustine also imbibed the zeal to promote the East Syriac heritage of the Syro Malabar Church. Fr. Augustine celebrates Solemn Qurbana in Syriac occasionally. Fr. Augustine teaches Syriac melodies to the Sunday school children in his parish. He thinks that continuing the Syriac tradition is a service to the future of the Syro Malabar Church, which is growing fast outside Kerala. According to Fr. Augustine, the Syriac language can be a connecting link to Syro Malabar communities around the world that celebrate the same liturgy in their respective native tongues and musical styles. Let us hope the Syro Malabar hierarchy will someday latch on to that idea and take steps to promote the Syriac language and music.